"No, but knowing what I do now, it seems to me probable. This paper furnishes just the evidence I was waiting for."
"I admire your bold reasoning, Fred," said the physician.
"His theory seems plausible," added Mrs. Dutton, "though I can't believe Matthew would think of doing such an act."
Fred felt much pleased at the good impression he was evidently making upon Nellie's parents.
"I may be entirely wrong," he replied, "but I have sufficient confidence in the idea to feel warranted in testing the matter."
"I would advise you to do so," said the doctor.
Presently Fred arose to go, and after receiving a cordial invitation from the doctor and his wife to call often, and a cheerful good night from Nellie, he withdrew, happy over the warm welcome given him, and full of enthusiasm in his purpose to bring the guilty parties to justice.
He first went home and got the knife in question, and then made his way straight to Mr. Rexford's room, where he found him alone.
"Good evening, Mr. Rexford," said Fred heartily.
"Good evening," returned the merchant, wondering what the boy's object could be in calling.